December 2004. Everyone, more or less, is preparing for their holiday shopping and deciding on the New Year's Eve celebration. Walking alone and out of place on the illuminated streets, I thought to myself that I had to give a gift, not to myself, but to my sister.

"But Kostoula is no longer with us," an inner voice told me. I persisted, thinking that I had promised her that morning, as I left the house. Only this gift, so different, would not be exclusively from me, but collective.

I made the first phone call: "Would you like to write a few words about Kostoula as you experienced her as a colleague? I'm thinking of creating a tribute with texts from those who knew her, worked with her, and lived alongside her." The response was positive.

So, with the writings of those who responded, this tribute to Kostoula was created. I believe this book is a precious gift, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]